Permanency Planning
Most frequently, the plan is for children, youth and families to reunite; Permanency Planning (also known as concurrent planning) is a State requirement which mandates that the Department of Social Services must identify an alternative permanent family structure for every child involved in the foster care system in the event that they are not able to reunify with their family. Concurrent Planning offers simultaneous consideration and preparation of implementation of a backup permanency plan only if the family is unable to reunify safely. Permanency options include adoption, guardianship, or a planned permanent living arrangement (PPLA). Permanency planning is a process which facilitates the creation and maintenance of lifelong connections with family members or other caring adults in a youth’s life, supporting a positive, healthy, continuous relationship throughout the youth’s life.
What is the process?
Permanent Placement Process
Permanent placement input is requested of parents, family members, and other individuals involved with the family; however, the final decision is determined by the Dependency Court Judge based on information provided by these parties, as well as social workers and other professionals involved with the case.
Who can use this service?
This service is provided for children who, due to abuse, neglect, or exploitation in their family home, are unable to be safely reunified within the statutory time frame.
Is there a charge for this service?
This service is provided free of charge.
When and where is this service offered?
During the Dependency process, this service is provided throughout San Luis Obispo County and beyond, extending primarily throughout the United States, but also worldwide. For additional information contact San Luis Obispo County Department of Social Services – Child Welfare at (805) 781-1700.
Location, directions and hours of operation
Click on location name to show hours of operation, directions and phone information
600 Quintana Road Morro Bay , CA 93442
Tel: (805) 772-6405
Fax: (805) 772-6409
3433 South Higuera San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
1086 East Grand Avenue Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
681 West Tefft Street Suite 1 Nipomo, CA 93444
9630 El Camino Real Atascadero, CA 93422
406 Spring Street Paso Robles, CA 93446
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are a family member of a child in foster care and would like to remain part of the child’s life, or are interested in being considered as a placement option, please contact the youth’s assigned social worker directly. If you are uncertain who this is, please contact San Luis Obispo County Department of Social Services – Child Welfare at (805) 781-1700 and ask to be connected with the youth’s social worker.
Contact Social Services
Child Hotline Information:
- If you suspect there is an emergency requiring immediate intervention, call 911
- To report suspected child abuse or neglect call the 24 hour Child Abuse Hotline at (805) 781-KIDS (5437) or toll free 1-800-834-KIDS (5437)
Adult Hotline Information:
- If you suspect there is an emergency requiring immediate intervention, call 911
- To report suspected elder abuse or neglect call the Adult Services Hotline at (805) 781-1790 during regular business hours, or after business hours call (844) 729-8011
- Mandated Reporter